Museum Archive: Vintage Marathon Marathon, 3/16oz Nickel fishing spoon #7188

Nickel plating gives this 3/16 oz (5.5 g) spoon its classic reflective sheen, characteristic of the Wisconsin-made lures produced by the Marathon Bait Company between 1929 and 1979. Measuring exactly 1 3/4" (4.5 cm), this specimen carries the iconic "MARATHON" stamp on its concave side, a hallmark of mid-century American manufacturing. The hardware is secured with a sturdy split ring holding a sharp treble hook, all maintaining a solid 4/5 condition with only minor surface signs of its age. Identified by product code 7188, the lure's teardrop profile is designed for versatile casting in various freshwater environments. A single line attachment hole at the tapered end remains clean and ready for rigging, showcasing the simple yet effective engineering that kept this company successful for five decades in the heart of the Midwest.